Edmonton: Your Perfect End-of-Summer Escape
Don’t miss your chance to explore the capital city of Alberta before the summer ends! Now is the perfect chance to savour every last drop of sun. And the best part, the sun shines in Edmonton for 17 hours a day, giving you plenty of time to pack in more great activities in a day and get an even bigger bang for your vacation buck.
We’ve compiled a list of local gems to help you decide what to do in Edmonton. From the West Edmonton Mall to Fort Edmonton Park, festival events and everything in between, we can help you plan the perfect end-of-season escape, including your stay at a Coast Hotel in Edmonton.
West Edmonton Mall
This is the largest mall in North America with over 800 retail stores, 100 eating establishments, a water park, an indoor skating rink, galaxy land, ropes quest, and more. It’s a shopaholic's haven! And even the most shopping-averse are sure to have a good time surfing indoors at the world's largest wave pool or sliding down the hurricane, the waterpark’s longest slide.
The Edmonton River Valley
Photo Courtesy of EEDC
Visit the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America; it’s 22 times the size of Central Park in the big apple. You can cycle, walk, or jog on over 160 kilometres of pathways or even take a Segway tour along the riverside.
Get out on the North Saskatchewan River that winds through the valley by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. If those options sound a little labour-intensive, you can enjoy the sights by paddleboat cruise as well.
The river valley is also home to the Edmonton Valley Zoo, several golf courses, and a number of annual festivals. If you are looking for things to do in Edmonton, there is always something happening in the valley. 
Photo Courtesy of EEDC
The John Janzen Nature Centre
This newly renovated attraction features interactive exhibits that teach participants awareness of nature in an urban setting.
The Edmonton Valley Zoo
If you’re looking for things to do in Edmonton, the Edmonton Valley Zoo is home to more than 350 animals and offers daily demonstrations, programs and talks.
Art Gallery of Alberta
Photo Courtesy of Plaid Interactive @whoisplaid
With a collection of over 6,000 works of art and a changing schedule of modern exhibitions and period pieces, there’s always something new to see at the Art Gallery of Alberta.
The Telus World of Science
Photo Courtesy of Telus World of Science Edmonton
The place to be if you want to experience a space and science adventure. One of the great things to do in Edmonton with kids.
Jurassic Forest
Photo Courtesy of EEDC
Kids and adults alike can enjoy guided safaris, explore trails, and dig for ancient remains as they learn about our prehistoric friends, the dinosaurs.
The Alberta Legislature Building
Photo Courtesy of EEDC
The province’s foremost historic site sits at the gateway of downtown Edmonton and overlooks the river valley. Kids can play in the wading pool, fountains and explore over 55 acres of walking paths, extensive gardens and dozens of historical monuments.
Alberta Aviation Museum
Photo Courtesy of EEDC
Dedicated to keeping Edmonton's rich aviation history alive, the Alberta Aviation Museum features more than 30 aircraft on display, a restoration area, gift shop and simulators.
Old Strathcona and Whyte Avenue
Photo Courtesy of Government of Alberta
Named one of Canada’s five best shopping neighbourhoods, Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona features unique local boutiques, art galleries, music shops and the trendiest restaurants & cafes. It’s also home to the city’s arts and cultural community; visitors love the funky bohemian spirit of the community.
Castrol Raceway
Just beyond the city, you can catch drag races at Canada’s premier motorsports complex, Castrol Raceway.
Century Mile Racetrack and Casino
If horse racing is your scene, the Century Mile Racetrack is the place to be for racing, betting, dining and more.
Leduc #1 Energy Discovery Centre
An oil discovery on this site changed the course of Canada’s energy future, and this national historic site tells the tale. It features a museum with educational displays and an outdoor space displaying industry equipment.
Outlet Shopping
Shop 'til you drop in one of Edmonton’s two outlet malls:
Festival City Of Canada
Dubbed the Festival City of Canada, there are world-class festivals held in Edmonton annually. Edmonton festivals held in August and September include: 
Photo Courtesy of Travel Alberta
Edmonton Fringe Festival
August 15 – 25, 2019
A festival that brings audiences and artists together to engage in off-beat theatre performances. 
Photo Courtesy of Markus Molenda / Edmonton Blues Festival
Edmonton Blues Festival
August 23 – 25, 2019
First held in 1999, this festival runs for three days mid-August at the Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park.
Symphony Under the Sky
Edmonton’s Symphony Orchestra’s summer tradition opens the season with a sampling of music from various countries and eras. 
Photo Courtesy of EEDC
Kaleido Family Arts Festival
September 13 – 15, 2019
Held on historic Alberta Avenue (118 Ave between 90-94 Street) for two and a half days every September, Kaleido is a family arts festival that features creative explorations and performances on rooftops and other places you have to see to believe.
Edmonton Comic and Entertainment Expo
September 20 – 22, 2019
At Edmonton's Comic-Con, meet your sci-fi heroes like George Tekai and Joonas Suotamo.
Edmonton International Film Festival
September 26 – October 5, 2019
With a selection of films from countries around the world, EIFF is sure to entertain.
Why Stay at Coast Edmonton Hotels
You will have an unforgettable experience at any of the Coast Hotel Edmonton locations. Any of the three Coast Hotels in Edmonton offer warm hospitality and maintain a high level of brand standards. You can always expect:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Triple-sheeting
- Comfortable accommodations
- Incredible locations
With hotels near Fort Edmonton Park and near Edmonton Valley Zoo, decide which Coast Hotel location will be the best for your summer stay in Edmonton:
Visit our website today to book your stay at one of these three great Coast Hotels in Edmonton.